Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that combines a rich buttery flavor with a hint of vanilla, the Vanilla Wafer Cake is a perfect choice. This recipe is easy to follow and results in a moist, flavorful cake that’s ideal for any occasion. Perfectly complemented by the crunch of pecans and the sweetness of coconut, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1¾ cups granulated sugar
6 large eggs
1 (11-ounce) box vanilla wafers, crushed into fine crumbs
½ cup whole milk or evaporated milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup finely chopped pecans
7 ounces sweetened coconut flakes
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
60 to 70 minutes
Total Time
80 to 90 minutes
Yield
1 cake
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-cup Bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 4 minutes.
3. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated.
4. Incorporate Wafers and Milk: Gradually add the crushed vanilla wafers and milk to the batter, alternating between the two. Begin and end with the wafer crumbs. Mix gently after each addition to maintain a smooth consistency.
5. Add Flavorings and Mix-ins: Stir in the vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and sweetened coconut flakes until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Fill the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
7. Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate or cake stand. Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your homemade Vanilla Wafer Cake!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-cup Bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 4 minutes.
Add Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated.
Incorporate Wafers and Milk
Gradually add the crushed vanilla wafers and milk to the batter, alternating between the two. Begin and end with the wafer crumbs. Mix gently after each addition to maintain a smooth consistency.
Add Flavorings and Mix-ins
Stir in the vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and sweetened coconut flakes until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Fill the Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate or cake stand. Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
Butter Consistency
Ensure that the butter is softened at room temperature for optimal creaming with the sugar.
Egg Temperature
Use eggs that are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
Coconut Flakes
For a more intense flavor, consider toasting the coconut flakes slightly before adding them to the batter.
Baking Time
Oven temperatures may vary, so start checking for doneness at the 60-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for longer freshness.
Cook techniques
Creaming
This technique involves beating together softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps the cake rise and results in a lighter texture.
Incorporating Eggs
Add eggs to the batter one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures that the eggs are evenly distributed and fully blended into the batter, contributing to the cake’s structure and moisture.
Alternating Ingredients
When adding crushed vanilla wafers and milk to the batter, alternate between the two. Begin and end with dry ingredients. This technique helps maintain a smooth batter and ensures even mixing.
Folding in Mix-ins
Gently stir in flavorings and mix-ins like vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and coconut flakes. This process helps to evenly distribute the ingredients without deflating the batter.
Baking
Bake the cake in a preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Proper baking time is crucial for achieving the desired texture and doneness.
Cooling
After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for a short time before inverting it onto a serving plate. This helps set the cake and makes it easier to remove from the pan without breaking.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but it may alter the final flavor slightly. If you do use salted butter, consider reducing the additional salt in the recipe.
What can I substitute for vanilla wafers?
You can use crushed graham crackers or any other cookie that has a similar texture and flavor profile.
Can I make this cake without eggs?
Yes, you can use egg substitutes such as unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water to achieve similar binding properties.
How should I store the Vanilla Wafer Cake?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
The Vanilla Wafer Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of buttery vanilla and the sweetness of coconut, creating a rich and moist cake perfect for any occasion. Its easy preparation with simple ingredients makes it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Serve it at family gatherings, potlucks, or just as a sweet treat to brighten your day!
Variations with Nuts
Add walnuts or almonds instead of pecans to create a different nutty flavor profile that complements the cake’s sweetness.
Chocolate Twist
Incorporate unsweetened cocoa powder into the batter for a chocolate variation, or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cake for a decadent finish.
Fruit Additions
Mix in fresh blueberries or chopped strawberries to add a burst of fruity flavor and color to the cake.
Cream Cheese Frosting
Top the cooled cake with cream cheese frosting for added richness and a creamy texture that pairs well with the cake’s flavors.
Caramel Drizzle
Drizzle caramel sauce over the cake before serving for an indulgent sweet touch that enhances its flavor.
Layering Option
Consider slicing the cake horizontally and adding layers of whipped cream and fresh fruit for a beautiful and delicious layered cake presentation.
